How Do I Dispose of Plasterboard?

If you’re making changes to your home, chances are you have a lot of old plasterboard to dispose of. But how you do it properly, and by that, I mean ethically and responsibly, is very important. 

Plasterboard contains gypsum, a soft sulphate mineral, which is then sandwiched between two layers of paper or fiberglass. It is important to dispose of it properly to minimize any negative impact on the environment.

How do I dispose of old plasterboard?

The best way to dispose of plasterboard is by recycling. You can find local companies to do this, with one option being to call us at Zero Waste Group. We divert just over 90% of all waste we collect away from landfill, recycling as much rubbish as we possibly can. 

Some recycling services we could deliver to will do it by grinding the plasterboard into a fine powder that can then be in the production of new plasterboard. This not only reduces how much plasterboard of waste is sent to landfill but also helps to save on natural resources by cutting down the need for extracting new raw materials.

Don’t be tempted to bury plasterboard in your garden, as a way of saving time and money. But please don’t do it. Plasterboard contains gypsum. This is a type of sulphate that can be harmful to plants and animals. It will also turn the soil in your garden more acidic.

Instead, call us a for a quote, or see if it’s possible to take the plasterboard and dispose of it at your local tip (HWRC). 

It is illegal for plasterboard to be disposed of in landfill as it’s not the most environmentally friendly option. It takes up valuable space and can release harmful chemicals into the air. 

Can I take plasterboard to the local tip?

You can take plasterboard to a local tip, but some HWRCs also charge to take plasterboard and will ask you to separate out plasterboard from other waste before accepting it. 

Here’s what our local tip says on their website:

“Plasterboard is charged at £10 for each sheet (maximum size 3 x 1.2m) or part sheet, and £6 for each standard rubble bag or part bag, up to a maximum of 53.5 x 82cm (when laid flat), filled so that the waste is contained and can be safely lifted. Visitors wishing to dispose of plasterboard, plaster or gypsum based products mixed with other waste types must separate them prior to visiting the HWRC so they can be disposed of separately. The removal of tiles from plasterboard may be made easier if soaked in water.”

Can you burn plasterboard on a fire?

You can burn plasterboard on a fire, but you should not do it as it’s not a safe or efficient method of disposal. When plasterboard is burned it can release harmful chemicals into the air, including sulphur dioxide, hydrogen cyanide, and ammonia. 

These pollutants can be harmful to both human health and the environment, and the ash generated from burning plasterboard can also be harmful.